SATPAQ Messenger

kennharriet · Posted: Mon Jan 06, 2020 2:02 pm Post subject: SATPAQ Messenger

Just curious if anyone has used one of these devices yet? We carry both a PLB and Garmin Inreach for our backcountry and boating trips. They are different tools with different capabilities. The SATPAQ device is attractive because of the low upfront cost and no monthly plan as Inreach requires, but then it does not have the same capabilities either.

https://www.trailmeister.com/satpaq-review/

thataway · Posted: Mon Jan 06, 2020 6:11 pm Post subject:

Question I would want to know is what satellite system is used (know it is geo stationary--which may limit its use to certain parts of the USA.

Who is their Sat SAR agency? What is the reliability and chain of communication?

They also sell a "medical" service--

The other issue is if it is weather resistant. Recharging? No marine reviews I could find in a quick search--such as THT or Panbo.

The digital communication is moderately expensive and you have to buy the minutes up front.

What if the company fails. Does not seem to be widely in use.

I would stick with PLB and InReach, both of which are well proven.

Aurelia · Posted: Tue Jan 07, 2020 4:27 pm Post subject:

There is simply not enough details on their site to allow me to fully understand what I am buying. And there are some misleading technical details in use that bother my better judgement. (WIFI chip talked about when comms with phone are bluetooth?) I also found this which means the service is at least 55 bucks per year to keep it working.

"The Message Credits currently in your account will not expire as long as your account remains active. To maintain an active account, you must add Message Credits in any denomination of MessagePaq at least once per year. If no addition of Message Credits is made your account in a one year period (365 days), your account becomes inactive and all Message Credits currently in your account will expire."

Greg

kennharriet · Posted: Tue Jan 07, 2020 6:25 pm Post subject:

Good points Bob and Greg. I still believe the PLB is the best tool if in serious need of rescue. The NOAA SARSAT system, professional rescue coordination center and finally the 121.5 capability provide good assurance.

I do like and use the text capability of Inreach but would still rely on a PLB if really in trouble. I just recently learned that there is no cost for unlimited texting between Inreach devices, if you at least have the basic safety plan.

Cut holes in the Vberth today so this is a nice distraction from digging foam. 🙂